Valencia: the Best 18 Spots in the City by Bike!

Valencia, a vibrant city on Spain’s eastern coast, offers a captivating blend of historical charm and modern innovation. Exploring its top 18 spots by bike allows visitors to enjoy the city’s diverse cultural heritage. From the quaint cafes of Ruzafa to the awe-inspiring City of Arts and Sciences, this cycling tour promises an unforgettable experience. Discover the Gothic architecture of the Holy Grail Cathedral, the UNESCO-listed Lonja de la Seda, and the futuristic wonders that define Valencia’s skyline. With each pedal, you’ll uncover the city’s captivating stories and witness the perfect harmony between its past and present.

Key Points

• Ruzafa neighborhood offers charming cafes and boutiques, while Plaza del Ayuntamiento showcases Valencia’s ornate Baroque architecture and a central social fountain.

• Marques de Dos Aguas Palace exemplifies Rococo architecture, and Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO site, was central to Valencia’s historic silk trade.

• Holy Grail Cathedral features stunning Gothic architecture, and Mercado Central is Spain’s oldest surviving market, offering local produce and delicacies.

• Torres de Serranos are Gothic gateways from Valencia’s medieval past, and Turia Park provides scenic paths and modern urban recreation.

• The City of Arts and Sciences, with its futuristic architecture, houses an opera house, planetarium, IMAX theater, and Europe’s largest aquarium.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Ruzafa Charm and Plaza Del Ayuntamiento

The bike tour often begins in the lively Ruzafa neighborhood, where visitors can admire the charming cafés, independent boutiques, and bustling street life.

Nearby, the impressive Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the city’s main square, showcases the grand Valencia City Hall and its ornate Baroque façade. This vibrant plaza is a hub of activity, with locals and travelers mingling around the central fountain.

From here, the tour continues, allowing cyclists to enjoy Valencia’s rich history and contemporary culture.

The Ruzafa charm and the grandeur of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento set the tone for an engaging and informative bike adventure through the heart of the city.

Marques De Dos Aguas Palace and Lonja De La Seda

Visiting the Marques de Dos Aguas Palace, a stunning example of Rococo architecture, and the nearby Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a captivating glimpse into Valencia’s rich history and cultural legacy.

The palace’s ornate baroque facade and elaborate interiors showcase the wealth and power of the aristocratic Marques family. Meanwhile, the Lonja de la Seda is an impressive Gothic building that once served as the center of Valencia’s prosperous silk trade.

Wandering through these architectural masterpieces provides a fascinating insight into the city’s past, from its mercantile heyday to its aristocratic grandeur. Both sites are must-see stops on any bike tour of Valencia.

Holy Grail Cathedral and Mercado Central

Valencia’s iconic Holy Grail Cathedral and the historic Mercado Central offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich religious heritage and vibrant local culture.

The cathedral’s breathtaking Gothic architecture and its claimed possession of the Holy Grail make it a must-see destination, while the bustling Mercado Central, the oldest surviving market in Spain, provides an immersive experience of traditional Valencian life and cuisine.

Some of the highlights of these two iconic sites include:

1. Admiring the intricate Gothic facade and soaring spires of the Holy Grail Cathedral.

2. Exploring the Mercado Central’s vibrant stalls, filled with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies.

3. Discovering the legend and significance of the Holy Grail, said to be housed within the cathedral’s walls.

4. Indulging in the authentic flavors of Valencia at the Mercado Central’s numerous food vendors.

Medieval Torres De Serranos and Turia Park

Towering over the Turia riverbed, the medieval Torres de Serranos offer visitors a glimpse into Valencia’s rich historical past. These impressive Gothic gateways once guarded the northern entrance to the city, providing strategic defense and a symbolic threshold between the old town and the surrounding countryside.

Nearby, the serene Turia Park sprawls along the former riverbed, now transformed into a lush 9-kilometer green oasis. Cyclists can explore the scenic paths, admiring the sculptures, fountains, and picturesque bridges that span the delightful urban landscape.

Whether you’re taking a leisurely ride or stopping to explore the ancient towers, this historic area provides a fascinating contrast between Valencia’s medieval heritage and its modern, vibrant spirit.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Futuristic City of Arts and Sciences

The Futuristic City of Arts and Sciences captivates visitors with its striking contemporary architecture, designed by the renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. This expansive cultural complex includes:

1. Palau de les Arts – An impressive opera house with a distinctive shell-like roof.

2. Hemisfèric – A striking building resembling a giant eye, housing an IMAX cinema and planetarium.

3. Oceanogràfic – Europe’s largest aquarium, featuring an underwater restaurant and diverse marine life exhibits.

4. Museu de les Ciències – An interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits covering various scientific disciplines.

Exploring this futuristic district by bike provides a unique perspective, allowing visitors to fully enjoy Valencia’s architectural marvels and cultural attractions.

Palau De Les Arts (Opera House)

Prominently situated within the Futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, Palau de les Arts is Valencia’s state-of-the-art opera house, boasting a distinctive shell-like roof that has become an iconic landmark.

Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, this impressive structure houses multiple performance halls, including the main auditorium that can accommodate over 1,400 guests.

It’s home to the prestigious Valencia Opera, which offers a wide range of productions, from classic operas to cutting-edge contemporary works.

Visitors can admire the building’s architectural grandeur, attend captivating performances, or simply bask in the energy of this cultural epicenter located within Valencia’s cutting-edge urban district.

Hemisférico (Eye of Knowledge)

Within the innovative City of Arts and Sciences complex, the Hemisférico stands as a striking architectural marvel. Designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, this elliptical structure resembles a giant human eye, earning it the nickname ‘Eye of Knowledge.’

Visitors can marvel at its sleek, futuristic design and explore its interactive exhibits that explore the wonders of science and technology. The Hemisférico offers:

1. A state-of-the-art Planetarium with immersive digital projections.

2. An IMAX theater showcasing captivating documentaries.

3. Interactive exhibits on astronomy, optics, and the human senses.

4. Stunning views of the entire City of Arts and Sciences complex.

Whether you’re a science enthusiast or simply appreciate awe-inspiring architecture, the Hemisférico is a must-visit destination in Valencia.

Oceanogràfic (Underwater Restaurant)

Nestled within the sprawling City of Arts and Sciences, the Oceanogràfic stands as a unique underwater dining experience, offering patrons the chance to marvel at a diverse array of marine life while savoring culinary delights.

Regarded as the largest aquarium in Europe, the Oceanogràfic’s main draw is the enormous viewing window that provides an immersive perspective of the underwater world.

Diners can expect to spot a variety of sharks, rays, and tropical fish as they enjoy a menu featuring fresh, locally-sourced seafood.

With its cutting-edge design and commitment to sustainability, the Oceanogràfic has become a must-visit attraction, blending gastronomy and marine conservation in a truly one-of-a-kind setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bike on the Tour?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own bikes. The tour provides comfortable city bikes, locks, and a map, which are included in the tour price. Bringing your own bike is not an option for this guided bicycle tour.

Are Helmets Provided?

The bike tour company provides helmets for all participants. Helmets are required for safety and the company ensures each rider has a properly fitting helmet before the tour begins. Bringing your own helmet is optional.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children, as it doesn’t include a baby seat. However, the tour is family-friendly and can accommodate children who can comfortably ride their own bike or be placed in a child seat.

How Do I Redeem My Free Cancellation Refund?

To redeem the free cancellation refund, customers can cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time and request a full refund. The tour provider will process the refund request promptly.

Can I Extend the Bike Rental After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend the bike rental after the tour. According to the tour overview, an extended bike rental is available for an additional charge of £8 per tour.

Recap

Exploring Valencia by bike offers a unique way to experience the city’s vibrant charm, from the quaint cafés of Ruzafa to the stunning architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences.

With 18 must-visit spots, cyclists can enjoy Valencia’s rich history, modern culture, and breathtaking sights, making for an unforgettable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: